System for Zippers

ABSTRACT

An apparatus comprising a zipper slider with a front face and a substantially planar-shaped zipper slider holder. The zipper slider holder has a holder front face and a holder rear face, the holder rear face fixedly connected to the zipper slider front face, the zipper slider holder shaped and sized to facilitate gripping by a human hand without the use of a pull tab.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/956,765 Abdullah C. Erdal filed on Jan. 3, 2020 and titled “Improved System for Zippers,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety; this application also claims priority to, and is a continuation in part of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/595,346 (U.S. Pat. No. 10,477,928), titled “Improved System for Zippers, filed on Oct. 7, 2019, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety and which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/180,496 (U.S. Pat. No. 10,477,928) filed on Nov. 5, 2018, titled “Improved System for Zippers,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, and is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/058,062 (patent no. 20) filed on Aug. 8, 2018 entitled “Improved System for Zippers,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, and which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/698,980 filed on Jul. 17, 2018 entitled “Improved System for Zippers,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Most zippers are used to connect two materials, including two pieces of fabric, together. To do this, zippers typically require a slider that is connected to a first piece of fabric, leaving the second piece of fabric free to be inserted into the slider through insertion pin. Once the second piece of fabric is inserted into the slider, the zipper can be “zipped,” or pulled up (or in any direction that closes the zipper), thereby connecting the two materials. Unfortunately, this typical configuration can be difficult for young children, older adults, and others who lack manual dexterity.

FIG. 1 is a face-down view of an example of the prior-art. In this drawing, the zipper system includes a top tape 1 (also called right-hand tape), and a bottom tape 13 (also called left-hand tape). Top tape 1 is connected to the first piece of fabric (not shown), while bottom tape 13 is connected to the second piece of fabric (not shown). The connections can be with thread, glue, or any other known method, including being woven integrally into their respective pieces of fabric.

Chain or zipper teeth 6 are in two halves, with each half in fixed contact with each of top tape 1 and bottom tape 13, respectively. The zipper shown in FIG. 1 includes slider 3 that is slidably coupled to one half of chain 6, and thereby coupled to the first piece of fabric. When moved to an extreme lower position, slider 3 is stopped by bottom stop 7.

FIG. 2 is a close-up view of one end of a zipper system. When in use, insertion pin 10 is inserted through slider 3 and into retainer box 11 in a way that aligns each half of the zipper chain so that when slider 3 is moved, the two halves of chain 6 are forced together to connect the first piece of fabric to the second piece of fabric.

In both FIGS. 1 and 2, to move slider 3 along chain 6, a user can grasp pull tab (also called a puller) 4, which is connected to slider 3, and is configured to be pulled in one direction or another, colloquially called “up” (the direction in which slider 3 is moved to connect the two halves of chain 6) and “down” (the direction in which slider 3 is moved to separate the connected halves of chain 6).

When the zipper is fully zipped up, slider 3 is found at the end of the zipper chain, and is stopped by top stop 2.

FIGS. 3 and 4 display a perspective view of slider 3 with pull tab 6. FIG. 3 includes slider 3, which is a single piece, with a top piece 21 that includes a hinge connection 23 for pull tab 6, and a bottom 22 connected to top 21. Bottom 22 is typically connected by a physical connection within the interior of slider 3. Slider 3 further includes slider gap 24, which allows slider 3 to slide up and down a zipper chain, but is constrained by the width of the zipper chain which is typically wider than the slider gap 24.

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of slider 3, that includes bottom piece 22, top piece 21, pull tab 6, and slider gap 24.

In both FIGS. 3 and 4, one can see that lower opening 204 is unitary, and is configured to allow inclusion of a both halves of a chain to sit side by side, with one half of the chain inserted using an insertion pin.

FIG. 5 displays the same slider as in FIGS. 3 and 4, and shows upper opening 205. As can be seen in FIG. 5, upper opening 205 is in two halves to accommodate each half of a chain.

FIG. 6 shows an upper and lower exploded view of slider 3. As can be seen in this FIG. 6, top piece 301 and bottom piece 302 are unified by splitter 303, situated between and in contact with both top piece 301 and bottom piece 302. As is shown in FIG. 6, splitter 303 is roughly wedge shaped and extends only a portion of the way from one end of splitter 303 to the other end of splitter 303 such that one end of the slider includes two openings, each opening configured to receive a half a zipper chain; the other end of splitter 303 includes a single opening configured to allow the joined halves of the zipper chain to pass through when physically connected to form a single zipper chain.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of slider 3, from the top, showing top 701, bottom 702, gap 703, and lower opening 704.

As discussed above, users with limited manual dexterity may have trouble using existing zippers. They may have trouble inserting an insertion pin into a slider, or they may have trouble manipulating the pull tab, or even holding the bottom stop as they zip up the zipper. Thus, a need exists to provide a zipper apparatus that works with many of the existing components of current zippers, but allows for easier use by those with limited manual dexterity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention provide a solution for combining two pieces of material that are appropriate for being combined by a zipper. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention that are shown in the drawings are summarized below. These and other embodiments are more fully described in the Detailed Description section. It is to be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the forms described in this Summary of the Invention or in the Detailed Description. One skilled in the art can recognize that numerous modifications, equivalents, and alternative constructions exist, each that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as expressed in the claims.

Generally, embodiments of the present invention include a system configured to provide a user with the ability to combine to materials together using zipper teeth. In one illustrative embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus comprises a zipper slider front piece and a zipper slider back piece. The zipper slider front piece and zipper back piece are configured to, when working together, connect a left half of a zipper chain to a right half of a zipper chain. The system includes a zipper slider with a front face, and a substantially planar-shaped zipper slider holder with a holder front face and a holder rear face, the holder rear face fixedly connected to the zipper slider front face, the zipper slider holder shaped and sized to facilitate gripping by a human hand without the use of a pull tab.

In another illustrative embodiment, an apparatus includes a zipper slider front piece and a zipper slider back piece, the zipper slider front piece and zipper back piece being configured to, when working together, connect a left half of a zipper chain to a right half of a zipper chain. Between the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider back piece is a spring configured to sit between the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece in a way that provides an opposing force between the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece. The zipper chain splitter includes a first housing configured to receive a first end of the spring, the zipper slider front piece including a second housing configured to receive a second end of the spring. The zipper slider front piece and zipper slider back piece are secured together by a securing mechanism.

In another illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises a zipper chain that includes a zipper chain left piece and a zipper chain right piece, the zipper chain left piece and the zipper chain right piece configured to connect to each other. The zipper chain front face is configured, when the zipper chain left piece and zipper chain right piece are connected to each other, to display a complete design across the front face.

In another illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises a replaceable left zipper chain that comprises a first row of teeth arranged to define a long axis, a second row teeth arranged parallel to the long axis, and a zipper tape with a first side in contact with the first row of teeth in a direction substantially parallel to the long axis. The zipper tape further includes a second side in contact with the second row of teeth in a direction substantially parallel to the long axis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The structure and the technical means adopted by the present invention to achieve the above and other objects can best be understood by referring to the following detailed description of certain embodiments and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a view of a prior-art embodiment of components of a zipper.

FIG. 2 illustrates a close-up view of a prior-art embodiment of components of a zipper.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective face-up view of a prior-art embodiment of a zipper slider with a pull tab.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective face-down view of a prior-art embodiment of a zipper slider with a pull tab.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective face-up view of a prior-art embodiment of a zipper slider with a pull tab.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective exploded view of a prior-art embodiment of a zipper.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a prior-art embodiment of a slider.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the invention, including a top and bottom view of left and right parts of a split slider with a left and right zipper chain.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the invention including left-hand zipper slider and a right-hand zipper slider.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention including a left-hand, or female slider holder, and a right-hand, or male slider holder.

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a male and female slider holder paired with a right and left side slider part.

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a bottom-front and top-front view of a slider joined to a slider holder.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a front view of a left-hand slider holder connected to the top of a left-hand slider that is slidably connected to a left-hand zipper chain, and a right-hand slider holder connected to the top of a right-hand slider that is slidably connected to a right-hand zipper chain.

FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a front view of a left-hand slider and left-hand slider holder connected to a right-hand slider and right-hand slider holder.

FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a left-hand slider holder and a right-hand slider holder, and a slot and tab assembly for joining the two pieces together.

FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment of the invention displaying the relationship between a left-hand and right-hand slider holder and a left-hand and right-hand slider, respectively.

FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a joined left-hand slider holder and right-hand slider holder.

FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a slider-holder assembly including a slot and tab configuration.

FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of the invention displaying the relationship between a slider holder and its respective slider part.

FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a slider assembly with an asymmetric configuration, including splitter asymmetrically divided between each slider piece.

FIG. 21 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a slider assembly with an asymmetric configuration, including a splitter and an external support member.

FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a left-hand slider holder and right-hand slider holder, and a push-button spring activated locking pin mechanism.

FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a right-hand-side bottom stop and a left-hand-side bottom stop, and their relationship to a complete zipper mechanism, all in an open configuration.

FIG. 24 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a right-hand-side bottom stop and a left-hand-side bottom stop, and their relationship to a complete zipper mechanism, all in preparation for creating a closed configuration.

FIG. 25 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a right-hand-side bottom stop and a left-hand-side bottom stop, and their relationship to a complete zipper mechanism, all in a closed configuration.

FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a perspective view of a right-hand-side bottom stop including a slot for receiving an insertion pin, and a perspective view of a left-hand-side bottom stop including an insertion pin.

FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a slider holder in contact with a zipper slider.

FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a substantially trapezoid-shaped slider holder.

FIG. 29 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a slider holder with a substantially trapezoid-shaped portion and an extension below the substantially trapezoid-shaped portion.

FIG. 30 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a substantially circular-shaped slider holder.

FIG. 31 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a slider holder with a substantially circular-shaped portion and tassel-like extensions below the substantially circular-shaped portion.

FIG. 32 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a slider holder with a substantially circular-shaped portion flanked on both sides by a substantially trapezoid-shaped left wing and a substantially trapezoid-shaped right wing.

FIG. 33 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a perspective view of a slider holder containing an actuator button and two light sources.

FIG. 34 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a perspective view of a slider holder containing an actuator button and a single light source.

FIG. 35 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a perspective view of a slider holder containing an actuator button, a speaker, a microphone, a battery-charger port, and an on/off switch.

FIG. 36 illustrates a rectangular slider with a typical pull tab, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 37 illustrates a rectangular slider with a rectangular pull tab, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 38 illustrates a rectangular slider with no pull tab, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 39 illustrates an oval shape slider, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 40 illustrates a square shape slider with rounded edges, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 41 illustrates a circular shape slider, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 42 illustrates a pentagon shape slider, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 43A illustrates a mouth view of a zipper front piece, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 43B illustrates a mouth view of a zipper slider rear piece, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 43C illustrates an exploded view of a zipper slipper mouth view, with zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece in alignment, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 44A illustrates an all molded slider mouth view, front and rear pieces assembled, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 44B illustrates an all molded slider front-face mouth view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 45A illustrates an all molded slider shoulder view, front piece, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 45B illustrates an all molded slider shoulder view, rear piece, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 45C illustrates an all molded slider shoulder view, front piece and rear pieces aligned, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 46 illustrates an all molded slider shoulder view, front piece and rear piece assembled, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 47 illustrates an all molded slider front shoulder view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 48A illustrates a single slider holder front-face shoulder view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 48B illustrates a single slider holder rear-face shoulder view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 48C illustrates a single slider holder top view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 49A illustrates a single slider holder rear mouth view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 49B illustrates a single slider holder front mouth view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 50A illustrates a single slider holder front mouth view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 50B illustrates a single slider holder front shoulder view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 51A illustrates a double slider holder front shoulder view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 51B illustrates a double slider holder rear shoulder view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 51C illustrates a double slider holder front and rear pieces alignment, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 52 illustrates a double slider holder front shoulder view front and rear pieces assembled, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 53 illustrates a double slider holder front shoulder view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 54A illustrates a double slider holder front mouth view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 54B illustrates a double slider holder rear mouth view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 54C illustrates a double slider holder front and rear pieces alignment, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 55 illustrates a double slider holder front mouth view front and rear pieces assembled, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 56 illustrates a double slider holder front mouth view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 57A illustrates a slider attached to new oversized zipper teeth, unzipped, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 57B illustrates a slider attached to new oversized zipper teeth, zipped, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 58A illustrates a double slider holder front mouth view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 58B illustrates a double Slider holder rear mouth view with spring, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 58C illustrates a double slider holder front and rear pieces alignment with spring, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 58D illustrates a double slider holder with spring front mouth view front and rear pieces assembled, with one side of slider holder configured to be pressed and/or twisted to open other side for inserting the insertion pin, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 58E illustrates a double slider holder with spring front mouth view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59A illustrates a slider front mouth view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59B illustrates a slider holder rear mouth view with spring, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59C illustrates a slider holder front and rear pieces alignment with spring, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59D illustrates a spring release mechanism for a slider, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59E illustrates a spring release mechanism for a slider, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59F illustrates a slider front mouth view with a front spring holder for a quick release mechanism, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59 G illustrates a slider rear mouth view with a spring and a rear spring holder, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59H illustrates a slider front piece and rear piece in alignment.

FIG. 60A illustrates a slider holder with spring front mouth view upper and rear pieces assembled, as one side of slider holder is pressed to open other side for inserting the insertion pin, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 60B illustrates a slider holder with spring front mouth view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 61A illustrates an all molded slider mouth view, front piece, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 61B illustrates an all molded slider mouth view, rear piece with spring, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 61C illustrates an all molded slider mouth view, front and rear pieces alignment with spring, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 61D illustrates an all molded slider with spring front mouth view front and rear pieces assembled, as one side of slider holder is pressed to open other side for inserting the insertion pin, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 61E illustrates an all molded slider with spring front mouth view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 62 illustrates a zipper slider with an oversized bottom stop pin and insertion pin, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 63 illustrates an embodiment in which zipper teeth are colored or shaded to reveal different shapes, characters, and/or designs when zipped together, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 64 illustrates an embodiment in which the zippers are colored to reveal a heart shape, characters, and a message, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 65A illustrates an embodiment in which zipper teeth color and design and clothing color and design can be aligned and coordinated to provide different patterns and designs, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 65B illustrates an embodiment in which a zipper apparatus can be decoratively shaped as, for example, a simulated necktie.

FIG. 65C illustrates an embodiment in which matching zipper teeth color and design and clothing color and design shown in bottom half of tie-like shape, whereas the top half of the Tie shape showing only the zipper and clothing without matching color or design for reference.

FIG. 66A illustrates an embodiment in which the left-hand side zipper and/or the right-hand side zipper are replaceable, in an unattached and unzipped configuration.

FIG. 66B illustrates an embodiment in which the left-hand side zipper and/or the right-hand side zipper are replaceable, in an attached, unzipped configuration.

FIG. 66C illustrates an embodiment in which the left-hand side zipper and/or the right-hand side zipper are replaceable, in an attached and zipped configuration.

FIG. 66D illustrates an embodiment in which the left-hand side zipper, the right-hand side zipper, or both, are replaceable, allowing a user to swap out zippers of different sizes and shapes, and zippers with different patterns, to allow for new sizes, shapes, and/or patterns, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 66E illustrates an embodiment in which a replacement zipper tape includes at least one of a design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, symbol, decoration, or ornamentation, and is configured to attach to zipper teeth on either side of the zipper tape.

FIG. 67A illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment in which a zipper slider holder is shaped as a plurality of three dimensional objects in contact with one another.

FIG. 67B illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment in which a zipper slider holder is shaped as a plurality of three dimensional objects in contact with one another.

FIGS. 68A through 68N illustrate a variety of three dimensional objects that can be used to form zipper sliders or zipper slider holders, alone or in combination, each according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purposes of the present invention, LHS is synonymous with “left-hand side” and “left hand,” and RHS is synonymous with “right-hand side” and “right hand.”

FIG. 8 displays both a top and bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention that includes LHS slider 801, RHS slider 802, LHS tape 803, RHS tape 804, LHS bottom stop 805, RHS bottom stop 806. In this embodiment, LHS slider 801 is slidably coupled to LHS zipper teeth 807, and can extend as far as LHS bottom stop 805, which prevents LHS slider 801 from sliding off LHS tape 803. Likewise, RHS slider 802 is slidably coupled to RHS zipper teeth 808, and can extend as far as RHS bottom stop 806, which prevents RHS slider 802 from sliding off RHS tape 804. In one embodiment, LHS slider 801 includes a LHS pull tab loop 809. In another embodiment, RHS slider 802 includes a RHS pull tab loop 810. In yet another embodiment, both RHS and LHS sliders include a pull tab loop.

In an embodiment, LHS slider 801 includes left-hand contact face 811, which is configured to be in contact with right-hand contact face 812 on RHS slider 802. Once in contact along their respective contact faces, LHS slider 801 and RHS slider 802 are configured to act as a traditional zipper slider, that is, a single or unitary slider, and is capable of zipping up, combining zipper chains 807 and 808, and unzipping, or disconnecting, the combined zipper chains back into separate zipper chain 807 and 808.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of both an LHS slider and an RHS slider, according to an embodiment. LHS slider includes LHS top piece 901, LHS bottom piece 903, both held together by LHS, or left-hand, splitter 905. In an embodiment, RHS slider includes RHS top piece 902, RHS bottom piece 904, and RHS splitter 906. In an embodiment, LHS top piece 901 is fixedly connected to LHS bottom piece 903 by LHS splitter 905; RHS top piece 902 is fixedly connected to RHS bottom piece 904 by RHS splitter 906. In an embodiment, LHS splitter 905 is formed as part of the LHS top piece 901, and RHS splitter 906 is formed as part of RHS top piece 902. In an embodiment, LHS splitter 905 can be formed as part of LHS bottom piece 903, and RHS splitter 906 can be formed as part of RHS bottom piece 904. In another embodiment, LHS splitter 905 and RHS splitter 906 are formed individually and attached to its respective bottom or top piece.

Regardless of how LHS splitter 905 and RHS splitter 906 are formed, when each is in contact with the other, they act as a single traditional splitter. In an embodiment, LHS splitter 905 is shaped as one half of a substantially wedge-shaped splitter, while RHS splitter 906 is shaped as the other half of a substantially wedge-shaped splitter.

FIG. 10 displays an embodiment of the invention including female slider holder 1001, male slider holder 1002, and the combined slider holder 903 where male slider holder 1002 is inserted into female slider holder 1001, creating a single slider holder. In this embodiment, male slider 1002 includes insertion tab 1004, and is configured to be inserted into slot 1005.

FIG. 11 displays an embodiment in which female slider holder 1101, also called RHS slider holder 1101, is configured to be attached to the top face 1113 of RHS slider 1111, and male slider holder 1102, also called LHS slider holder 1102, is configured to be attached to the top face 1114 of LHS slider 1112. In another embodiment, female slider holder 1101 is manufactured as part of RHS slider 1111, and male slider holder 1102 is manufactured as part of LHS slider 1112, rather than being manufactured individually and then attached afterwards. In an embodiment, insertion tab 1104 is configured to be inserted into slot 1105 such that, when insertion tab 1104 is inserted into slot 1005, RHS slider 1111 and LHS slider 1112 are placed in communication in a way that allows them to function as a single slider.

FIG. 12 displays a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention in which female slider holder 1201 is connected to RHS slider 1211, and male slider holder 1202 is connected to LHS slider 1212. In an embodiment, male slider 1202 is connected to female slider holder 1201, allowing RHS slider 1201 and LHS slider 1202 to function as a unitary or single slider. One skilled in the art will understand that female slider holder 1201 can also be called LHS slider holder, and male slider holder 1202 can also be called RHS slider holder.

FIG. 13 is an embodiment of the invention showing a top view of the zipper mechanism. In this embodiment, LHS slider 1301 is coupled to LHS zipper teeth 1303, and RHS slider 1302 is coupled to RHS zipper teeth 1304. To fully zip the zipper from top to bottom, in this embodiment, both LHS slider 1301 and RHS slider 1302 are positioned in contact with LHS stopper 1305 and RHS stopper 1306. Next, insertion tab 1308 is inserted into slot 1307, forming a single slider capable, when moved, of attaching LHS zipper teeth 1203 to RHS zipper teeth 1304.

FIG. 14 is an embodiment of the invention showing LHS slider 1401 and RHS slider 1402 connected together to form single slider 1499. In this figure, single slider 1499 has been slid partially along zipper teeth 1403 and 1404, forcing them together to join the two sides.

FIG. 15 is an embodiment of the invention showing a method of attaching LHS slider holder 1501 to RHS slider holder 1502 to form unitary slider holder 1503. In this embodiment, LHS slider holder 1501 include substantially u-shaped left-hand cut-out area 1505, also called slot 1505, configured to receive right-hand tab 1506. In addition, RHS slider holder 1502 includes a substantially u-shaped right-hand cut-out area 1508 configured to receive left-hand tab 1507 such that, when placed together, allows for formation of a unit that functions as a single slider. In one embodiment, LHS slider holder 1501 and RHS slider holder 1502 are formed separately from the LHS slider and the RHS slider, as is shown in 13D. In another embodiment, LHS slider holder 1501 and RHS slider holder 1502 are formed integrally with the LHS and RHS slider, forming a single LHS piece and a single RHS piece. In an embodiment, the left-hand cut-out area forms left-hand tab 1507, and right-hand cut-out area forms right-hand tab 1506.

FIG. 16 displays an embodiment of the invention showing the relationship between LHS slider holder 1601 and RHS slider 1603, and also the relationship between RHS slider holder 1602 and RHS slider 1604, according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 17 displays a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing LHS slider holder connected to LHS slider 1703, locked in place with RHS slider holder 1702, which is connected to RHS slider 1704. In this embodiment, LHS slider holder 1701 couples with RHS slider holder 1702 to form a single slider holder 1703. In this embodiment, insertion tab 17606 inserts into slot 1705, thus locking together the two halves.

FIG. 18 displays an embodiment of the invention that includes LHS slider holder 1801 configured to couple with RHS slider holder 1802 to form a single slider holder 1805. In this embodiment, insertion tab 1804 inserts into slot 1803, thus locking together the two halves to form unitary piece 1805, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slot 1804 is internal to LHS slider holder 1801 and is substantially rectangular in cross section; insertion tab 1804 is external to RHS slider holder 1803, and is also substantially rectangular in cross section such that insertion tab 1804 is configured to fit into slot 1803.

FIG. 19 displays LHS slider holder 1901 and its relationship to LHS slider 1903, along with RHS slider holder 1902 and its relationship to RHS slider 1904, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, each slider holder is attached to its respective slider through some kind of adhesive, magnet, weld, or any other practicable way of connecting a slider holder to a slider. In an embodiment a slider holder and its respective slider are manufactured in such a way that the slider holder and slider form a unitary piece.

FIG. 20 displays a perspective view of an embodiment in which LHS slider holder 2001 and RHS slider holder 2002 are not equally sized, and are symmetric in neither their shape nor their function. In an embodiment, the LHS slider and slider holder need not be symmetric with the RHS slider and RHS slider holder, as long as the two sides, acting together, preserve the zipper functionality. In an embodiment, LHS slider includes LHS top piece 2003 and LHS bottom piece 2005, along with LHS splitter 2007 situated between and serving as a connection between, LHS top piece 2003 and LHS bottom piece 2005. RHS slider includes RHS top piece 2004 and RHS bottom piece 2006, along with RHS splitter located between, and serving as a connection between, RHS top piece 2004 and RHS bottom piece 2006.

FIG. 21 displays a perspective exploded view of an embodiment, including LHS slider 2101 and RHS slider 2102. In an embodiment, LHS slider 2101 includes LHS top piece 2103 and LHS bottom piece 2105, connected by LHS support member 2107, which is located external to LHS top piece 2103 and LHS bottom piece 2105, and which extends externally from LHS slider 2101 substantially parallel to a plane that is parallel to both LHS top piece 2103 and LHS bottom piece 2105. In an embodiment, LHS support member 2107 is configured to work in concert with LHS top piece 2103 and LHS bottom piece 2105 to help guide LHS zipper chain through LHS slider 2001.

In an embodiment, RHS slider 2102 includes RHS top piece 2104 and RHA bottom piece 2106, and RHS splitter 2110 located substantially between RHS top piece 2104 and RHS bottom piece 2106, which can serve as a connection between RHS top piece 2104 and RHS bottom piece 2106. In an embodiment RHS splitter 2110 is substantially wedge shaped, and no LHS splitter exists. In an embodiment, RHS slider 2102 includes RHS support member 2108, which is located external to RHS top piece 2104 and RHS bottom piece 2106, and which extends externally from RHS slider 2102 parallel to a plane that is parallel to both RHS bottom piece 2104 and RHS top piece 2106. In an embodiment, RHS support member 2108 is configured to work in concert with RHS top piece 2104 and RHS bottom piece 2106 to help guide RHS zipper chain through RHS slider 2002. One skilled in the art will understand that both RHS and LHS support members may be configured in any way operable to allow a slider to slide along a zipper chain.

FIG. 22 displays a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention, in which LHS slider holder 2201 is configured to couple with RHS slider holder 2202 by inserting tab 2204 into slot 2203. In one embodiment, tab 2204 includes a push button spring activated locking pin, 2206, which, when inserted into slot 2213, can extend through, and lock into, pin hold 2205, thus securing the two pieces together to create single slider holder 2207. As in other embodiments, the LHS and RHS slider holders can be manufactured and attached to their respective LHS and RHS sliders, or can be manufactured as a single piece, so that LHS slider holder is formed as part of an LHS slider, and the RHS slider holder is formed as a part of RHS slider. This provides for two pieces to manufacture, rather than four.

A variety of locking mechanisms to hold together the LHS slider holder and the RHS slider holder have been shown. In practice, many different types of connection can be used. For example, in some embodiments, the locking mechanism is a magnet to hold the two pieces together (see FIG. 10, numbers 1005 and 1006). In another embodiment, a magnet is used as part of tab and slot mechanism to help hold the LHS and RHS pieces together. In some embodiments, the LHS and RHS slider holder are found on a front side of LHS and RHS slider, respectively. In other embodiments, the LHS and RHS slider holders are found on the back side of the LHS and RHS slider, respectively. In some embodiments, the LHS slider holder can be located on the RHS slider, and the RHS slider holder can be located on the LHS slider.

FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a right-hand-side (or RHS) bottom stop 2301, a left-hand-side (or LHS) bottom stop 2302, and their relationship to a complete zipper mechanism, all in an open configuration. In an embodiment, the RHS bottom stop 2301 is connected to a right-hand row of zipper teeth 2309 on which is mounted zipper slider 2307. Zipper slider 2307 includes zipper front face 2308. RHS bottom stop comprises RHS front face 2304 and RHS inner face 2305. LHS bottom stop 2302 is mounted on a left-hand row of zipper teeth 2310, and includes LHS front face 2303 and insertion pin 2306 configured to be placed into physical connect RHS bottom stop and LHS bottom stop.

In an embodiment, RHS front face 2304 extends beyond zipper front face 2308 of zipper slider 2307 such that a user has the ability to firmly grasp RHS bottom stop 2301, thereby allowing more control for those with limited dexterity. The extension portion can be round, oblong, rectangular, triangular, or any shape that facilitates gripping and holding in place RHS bottom stop 2301. In an embodiment, LHS front face 2303 extends beyond zipper front face 2308 on the side of zipper slider 2307 that is proximate to LHS bottom stop 2302, such that a user has the ability to firmly grasp the LHS bottom stop 2302 for insertion through zipper slider 2307 and into RHS bottom stop 2301. The extension portion can be round, oblong, rectangular, triangular, or any shape that facilitates gripping and holding in place the LHS bottom stop.

FIG. 24 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including RHS bottom stop 2401, LHS bottom stop 2402, and their relationship to a complete zipper mechanism, all in preparation for creating a closed configuration. In an embodiment, RHS bottom stop 2401 includes RHS front face 2404. LHS bottom stop 2402 includes LHS front face 2403, and connects with RHS bottom stop 2401 by inserting insertion pin 2405 through an opening in zipper slider 2407 and into contact with RHS bottom stop 2401. Thus, when zipper slider 2407 is pulled away from RHS bottom stop 2401 and LHS bottom stop 2402, the two sets of zipper teeth 2409 and 2410 are forced together, thereby “zipping up” the zipper.

In an embodiment, RHS front face 2404 has a width that extends beyond slider outer face 2408 such that a user has the ability to firmly grasp RHS bottom stop 2401. In an embodiment, LHS front face 2403 extends beyond slider outer face 2408 on the side that is proximate to LHS bottom stop 2402, such that a user has the ability to firmly grasp the LHS bottom stop 2302 for insertion through zipper slider 2407 and into RHS bottom stop 2401. Once inserted, as shown in the embodiment in FIG. 24, the combined dimensions of RHS bottom stop 2401 and LHS bottom stop 2402 allow a user, particularly a user with limited dexterity, to more firmly grasp the combined mechanism in preparation for zipping up the zipper.

FIG. 25 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including RHS bottom stop and LHS bottom stop, and their relationship to a complete zipper mechanism, all in a closed configuration. In an embodiment, RHS bottom stop 2501 is placed in contact with LHS bottom stop 2502 by inserting insertion pin 2503 through a side of the zipper slider proximate to LHS bottom stop 2502, and then into a groove in the inner face of RHS bottom stop 2501. Once RHS bottom stop 2501 and LHS bottom stop 2502 are connected, zipper slider 2507 can be pulled up, forcing together the two zipper chains creating a single “zipped up” zipper chain 2505.

In an embodiment, the combined dimensions of RHS bottom stop 2501 and LHS bottom stop 2502 allow a user, including a user with limited dexterity, to more firmly grasp the combined mechanism as the zipper slider is pulled upward, zipping up the zipper, thereby providing increased ability to hold the combined mechanism in place to allow ease of zippering.

FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a perspective view of a right-hand-side bottom stop including a slot for receiving an insertion pin, and a perspective view of a left-hand-side bottom stop including an insertion pin. In an embodiment, RHS bottom stop 2601 includes RHS front face 2602, and RHS inner face 2603, which is configured to connect with LHS bottom stop 2608. In an embodiment, RHS left face 2603 includes slot 2604, which is configured to receive a insertion pin 2609, thereby connecting LHS bottom stop 2608 to RHS bottom stop 2601. In an embodiment, RHS bottom stop 2601 is substantially front and back symmetric, such that RHS bottom stop includes RHS rear face (not shown) substantially identical to and opposite from RHS front face 2602. In an embodiment, slot 2604 is defined by RHS front face 2602 and RHS rear face extending beyond at least a lower portion of RHS inner face 2603. In an embodiment, RHS front face 2602 includes a textured grip portion (not shown), thereby making it easier to grip for a person with limited manual dexterity.

In an embodiment, RHS front face includes RHS front groove 2605 extending from RHS top 2607 down to a predetermined distance from RHS top 2607 along RHS front face 2602. RHS rear face includes RHS rear groove 2606 extending from RHS top 2607 down to the same predetermined distance from RHS top. In other words, solely as an example, if RHS front groove 2605 is 0.5 cm long, then RHS rear groove 2606 is also 0.5 cm long. RHS front groove 2605 and RHS rear groove 2606 are configured to allow a zipper slider to slide along RHS bottom stop 2601 until it contacts the bottom of each groove, thereby stopping the slider from sliding further down. In an embodiment, RHS front groove 2605 and RHS rear groove 2606 are placed along RHS front face 2602 and RHS rear face such that a zipper slider, when lowered into position against RHS bottom stop 2601, the right-hand edge of the zipper slider slides into RHS front groove 2605 and RHS rear groove 2606 and is stopped when it hits the end of the groove that farthest from RHS top 2607 (the bottom of the groove).

In an embodiment, LHS bottom stop 2608 includes insertion pin 2609 on the side proximal to RHS bottom stop 2601, and is configured to fit into slot 2604. In an embodiment, LHS bottom stop 2608 includes LHS front groove 2610 in LHS front face 2612 and LHS rear groove 2611 in LHS rear face (not shown). LHS rear groove 2611 is placed in LHS rear face directly opposite LHS front groove 2610 such that together, LHS front groove 2610 and LHS rear groove 2611 define insertion pin 2609. Front groove 2610 and rear groove 2611 are configured to allow a zipper slider to slide along LHS bottom stop 2608. In an embodiment, insertion pin 2609 extends outward beyond LHS front face 2602 and LHS rear face. In an embodiment, LHS front groove 2610 and rear groove 2611 are placed along LHS front face 2612 and LHS rear face such that a zipper slider, when lowered into position against LHS bottom stop 2608, the left-hand edge of the slider slides into the groove. In an embodiment, LHS front face 2612 includes a textured portions 2615 and 2617, thereby making it easier to grip by a person with limited manual dexterity.

RHS bottom stop 2601 includes opening 2614 configured to receive a right-hand tape, thereby connecting RHS bottom stop 2601 to the rest of the zipper mechanism. Likewise, LHS bottom stop 2608 includes opening 2613 to receive a left-hand tape thereby connecting LHS bottom stop 2608 to the rest of the zipper mechanism. One skilled in the art will understand that any known practicable method of connecting a bottom stop to a zipper tape may be used.

FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a slider holder in contact with a zipper slider. In an embodiment, slider holder 2705 is coupled to zipper slider 2706 (shown in dotted line behind slider holder 2705) and is configured to move up and down along zipper chains 2707 and 2708. In an embodiment, slider holder 2705 is typically larger and easier to grip than zipper slider 2706. In an embodiment, slider holder 2705 is larger in the left-right direction than zipper slider 2706. In an embodiment, slider holder 2705 is larger in the top-bottom direction than zipper slider 2706. In an embodiment, slider holder 2705 includes a textured grip, thereby making it easier to grip than zipper slider 2706.

FIGS. 28 through 32 illustrate embodiments of the invention that include slider holders of various shapes to improve a user's ability to grip the slider holder.

FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a substantially trapezoid-shaped slider holder. In an embodiment, slider holder 2801 is configured to be mounted on a zipper slider (shown in dotted-line underneath slider holder 2801, and not numbered), and is substantially trapezoid shaped. In an embodiment, slider holder 2801 includes a textured portion for ease of grip.

FIG. 29 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a slider holder with a substantially trapezoid-shaped portion and an extension below the substantially trapezoid-shaped portion. In an embodiment, slider holder 2901 includes substantially trapezoid-shaped portion 2902, and includes substantially oval-shaped extension 2903 connected along the bottom edge of substantially trapezoid-shaped portion 2902, and substantially elongated-trapezoid-shaped extension 2904 connected along the bottom edge of substantially oval-shaped extension 2903. In an embodiment, elongated-trapezoid-shaped extension 2903 is fixedly connected to oval-shaped extension 2902. In an embodiment, elongated-trapezoid-shaped extension 2903 is movably connected to oval-shaped extension 2902. In an embodiment, elongated-trapezoid-shaped extension is configured to move side to side along substantially oval-shaped extension 2902. In an embodiment, slider holder 2901 includes a textured portion for ease of grip. The textured portion (not shown) can be included on substantially trapezoid-shaped portion 2902, on substantially oval-shaped portion 2903, or on substantially elongated-trapezoid-shaped portion, 2904, or any combination thereof.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term fixedly connected means connected in a substantially rigid manner. One skilled in the art will understand that any component that is fixedly connected can be removed or replaced.

FIG. 30 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a substantially circular-shaped slider holder. In an embodiment, substantially circular-shaped slider holder 3001 is mounted on a zipper slider (shown in dotted-line underneath slider holder 3001, and not numbered) in which slider holder 3001 is substantially circular shaped. In an embodiment, slider holder 3001 includes a textured portion for ease of grip.

FIG. 31 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a slider holder with a substantially circular-shaped portion and tassel-like extensions below the substantially circular-shaped portion. In an embodiment, slider holder 3101 includes substantially circular-shaped portion 3102 extended using spherical tops 3103 and elongated bottoms 3104. The combination of spherical tops 3103 and elongated bottoms 3103 hang below substantially circular-shaped portion 3102 creating two tassels. In an embodiment, slider holder 3101 includes a textured portion for ease of grip. The textured portion (not shown) can be included on substantially circular-shaped portion 3102, on one or both of tassel-shaped connectors 3103 and 3104, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 32 illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a slider holder with a substantially circular-shaped portion flanked on both sides by a substantially trapezoid-shaped left wing and a substantially trapezoid-shaped right wing. In an embodiment, slider holder 3201 includes substantially circular-shaped portion 3202, and includes substantially wing-shaped extension 3203 extending leftward from substantially circular-shaped portion 3202, substantially wing-shaped extension 3204 extending rightward from substantially circular-shaped portion 3202.

FIG. 33 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a perspective view of a slider holder containing an actuator button and two light sources. In an embodiment slider holder 3306 is bounded by a housing that includes light sources 3308, one on bottom face 3309, and one on outer face 3310. In an embodiment, slider holder 3306 further includes an actuator button that, when depressed, activates one or more of light sources 3308. In an embodiment, light sources 3308 are internal to, or flush with bottom face 3309 and outer face 3310. In an embodiment, light sources 3308 extend beyond bottom face 3309 and outer face 3310.

In an embodiment, the electronics (not shown) that support light sources 3308, and place them in communication with actuator button 3307, are internal to the housing that defines the outside of slider holder 3306. Light sources 3308 can be any practicable light source, such as halogen, LED, LCD, and others. In an embodiment light sources 3308 are driven by a battery contained in a cavity within the housing (not shown). In an embodiment, the housing includes a removable access such that the battery can be accessed and changed. In an embodiment, light sources 3308 are driven by a photovoltaic panel (not shown).

FIG. 34 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a perspective view of a slider holder containing an actuator button and a single light source. In an embodiment slider holder 3406 includes a light source 3408. In an embodiment, light source 3408 is located on bottom face 3409. In an embodiment, light source 3408 is located on outer face 3310. Light sources 3308 can be any practicable light source, such as halogen, LED, LCD, and others.

In an embodiment, slider holder 3406 further includes an actuator button that, when depressed, activates light source 3408. In an embodiment, light source 3408 is internal to flush, or extends beyond, with bottom face 3409. In an embodiment, light source 3408 is internal to, flush with, or extends beyond, outer face 3410. One skilled in the art will appreciate that light source 3408 can be found on any face of slider holder 3406.

In an embodiment, the electronics (not shown) that support light source 3408, and place them in communication with actuator button 3407, are internal to slider holder 3406. In an embodiment light source 3408 is driven by an internal battery (not shown). In an embodiment, light source 3408 is driven by a photovoltaic panel (not shown).

FIG. 35 illustrates an embodiment of the invention including a perspective view of a slider holder containing an actuator button, a speaker, a microphone, a battery-charger port, and an on/off switch. In an embodiment, slider holder 3506 is bounded by a housing that defines the external shape of slider holder 3506, and includes actuator button 3507, speaker 3508, and microphone 3509. Actuator button 3507, when depressed, can activate any combination of speaker 3508 and microphone 3509. In an embodiment, slider holder 3506 is bounded by a housing that surrounds the electronic circuits to support each of the listed components, and that puts them in communication with one another. In an embodiment, slider holder 3506 includes at least one of GPS technology for locating slider holder 3506 (and, by extension, a person such as a young child wearing clothing that includes slider holder 3506), and wireless communication electronics for connecting the functionality contained in the electronic components to a network and/or a device. For example, such wireless communication electronics can include electronics for Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth or other wireless connectivity, and any other practicable means of wirelessly connecting the components of the slider holder 3506 to a network or a device. In an embodiment, the wireless communication electronics can include GPS functionality, a memory storage to, for example, store music, an activity counter such as a step counter and/or distance measure, a microphone, a speaker, WIFI, a light source, or other electronics components.

In an embodiment, actuator button 3507 can, when depressed, activate a wireless alarm that can be received on another device, or can play through speaker 3508. In an embodiment, actuator button 3507 can, when depressed, activate speaker 3508 and/or microphone 3509. In an embodiment, actuator button 3507 can, when pressed, initiate or answer a telephone via a mobile device coupled to slider holder 3506. In an embodiment, speaker 3508 is voice activated and is coupled to a smartphone or other mobile device to allow for hands-free operation. Such coupling can be achieved via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any other practicable wireless connection. In an embodiment, slider holder 3506 is coupled to a smartphone or other mobile device via a wired connection.

In an embodiment, slider holder 3506 includes battery-charging port 3511, and on/off button 3510. Battery charging port can be any type of USB, Firewire, Lighting connector, or any other known and practicable charging port that can create an electrical connection between battery-charging port 3511 and a power-charging source.

FIG. 36 illustrates an embodiment including a rectangular zipper slider with a typical pull tab. As can be seen, the apparatus includes a conventional pull tab 3601 coupled to zipper slider 3602. Zipper slider 3602 includes zipper slider front piece 3603, and zipper slider rear piece 3604, shown in dotted lines in FIG. 36 because it lies behind zipper chain 3605 and right-hand tape 3606 and left-hand tape 3607. Pull tab 3601 is coupled to zipper slider front piece 3603 via couple 3608, which can be manufactured to be integrally connected to zipper slider front piece 3603 such that zipper slider front piece 3603 and couple 3608 form a single piece.

FIG. 37 illustrates an embodiment including pull tab 3701 coupled to zipper slider 3702 on zipper slider front face 3703. In an embodiment, pull tab 3701 is substantially rectangular and is offset from zipper slider 3702 facilitating gripping by a human hand such that a user can grasp pull tab 3701 between a thumb and a finger. In an embodiment, pull tab 3701 is fixedly coupled to zipper slider 3702. In an embodiment, pull tab 3701 is coupled to zipper slider 3702 in a way that allows pull tab 3701 to move relative to zipper slider 3702. In an embodiment, pull tab 3701 can be attached to zipper slider 3702 at a rotation point using any practicable means such that pull tab 3702 can rotate in a plane parallel to front face 3703.

In an embodiment, pull tab 3701 can be substantially rectangular. In an embodiment, pull tab 3701 can be any polygon that is practicable for gripping by a human hand. In an embodiment, pull tab 3701 can be a combination of polygons or three dimensional shapes.

Zipper slider 3702, in an embodiment, has a horizontal width 3704 such that the front face 3703 extends beyond zipper chain 3705. In an embodiment, zipper slider front face 3703 substantially overlaps with right hand tape 3706 and left hand tape 3707.

FIG. 38 illustrates an embodiment in which zipper slider 3801 does not include a pull tab. In an embodiment, zipper slider 3801 includes zipper slider front piece 3803 and zipper slider rear piece 3804, shown in dotted lines in FIG. 38 because it lies below right hand tape 3806 and left hand tape 3807. In an embodiment, zipper slider rear piece 3804 are zipper slider front piece 3803 are substantially similar in size. In an embodiment, zipper slider rear piece 3804 is substantially smaller than zipper slider front piece 3803. In an embodiment, zipper slider rear piece 3804 is substantially larger than zipper slider front piece 3803.

Zipper slider 3801, in an embodiment, is sized to facilitate grasping by a hand that, for example, but not the only example, is not able to or not comfortable grasping a pull tab. In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 3803 is substantially rectangular shaped. In an embodiment, a zipper slider and/or a zipper slider holder includes a periphery shaped as a polygon, ellipse, egg, or a circle.

FIG. 39 illustrates zipper slider 3901 that does not include a pull tab, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper slider 3901 includes zipper slider front piece 3902 shaped substantially as an oval. In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 3902 is shaped substantially as an oval with its long axis substantially horizontal (that is, perpendicular to zipper chain 3903) (not shown). In an embodiment, a zipper slider and/or a zipper slider holder includes a periphery shaped as a polygon, ellipse, egg, or a circle.

FIG. 40 illustrates zipper slider 4001 that does not include a pull tab, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper slider 4001 includes zipper slider front piece 4002 that is substantially rectangular shaped, with rounded edges. In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 4002 is substantially rectangular with its long axis oriented horizontally. In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 4002 is substantially rectangular with its long axis oriented vertically. In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 4002 is shaped substantially as a square.

In an embodiment, a zipper slider and/or a zipper slider holder includes a periphery shaped as a polygon, ellipse, egg, or a circle. FIG. 41 illustrates an embodiment of zipper slider 4101 that does not include a pull tab, and in which zipper slider 4101 includes zipper slider front piece 4102 that has a periphery shaped substantially circularly. FIG. 42 illustrates an embodiment in which zipper slider 4201 includes front piece 4202 that has a periphery shaped substantially as a pentagon. One skilled in the art will understand that zipper slider front piece 4202 can be shaped as a prism, a polygon, or any three-dimensional shape that is practicable for facilitating gripping by a human hand.

FIGS. 43A, 43B, and 43C illustrate a mouth view of an zipper slider integrated with a zipper slider holder. Because of the size and shape of the integrated slider/slider holder, gripping by human hand is facilitated, and no additional slider holder, pull tab, or the like, is necessary. Methods of integrating the zipper slider and zipper slider holder include, using a single piece of material into which the components (described below) can be carved, lathed, molded, machined, 3-D printed, or any other way that allows either or both of the top and bottom pieces of the integrated zipper slider/zipper slider holder to be formed out of a single piece of material.

FIG. 43A illustrates a zipper front piece; FIG. 43B illustrates a mouth view of a zipper slider rear piece; and FIG. 43C illustrates an exploded view of a zipper slipper mouth view, with zipper slider front piece 4301 and zipper slider rear piece 4302 in alignment, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 4301 aligns with, and is in contact with, zipper slider rear piece 4302. Zipper slider rear piece 4302 includes splitter 4303 and cavity 4304 configured to work together such that when the zipper slider is moved in one direction, a zipper chain can be “zipped up,” and when moved in another direction, a zipper chain can be “unzipped.” In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 4301 is manufactured separate from zipper slider rear piece 4302, and the two piece are connected in any practicable way to create a single zipper slider. In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 4301 and zipper slider rear piece 4302 are manufactured as a unitary piece. In an embodiment, the contact point where front piece 4301 is in contact with rear piece 4302 is at splitter front face 4305. One skilled in the art will understand that the terms front piece and rear piece can be interchanged, as long as the zipper slider functionality is maintained.

FIG. 44A illustrates an all molded zipper slider 4401 in a mouth 4402 view, front piece 4401 and rear piece 4402 assembled, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 44B illustrates an all molded zipper slider 4401 showing a mouth 4402 view of front piece 4403, with rear piece 4404 shown in dotted lines below zipper chain 4410, according to an embodiment. As can be seen in FIG. 44B, zipper chain 4410 is run through mouth 4402 such that when zipper slider 4401 is moved away from slider stop 4411, the left and right halves of zipper chain 4410 are connected together causing the zipper to be zipped, and when zipper slider 4401 is moved toward slider stop 4411, the left and right halves of zipper chain 4410 are separated, causing the zipper to be unzipped.

FIGS. 45A, B, and C generally display an embodiment in which a zipper slider is integrated with a zipper slider holder.

FIG. 45A illustrates an all molded zipper slider front piece 4501 in a shoulder view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 45B illustrates an all molded zipper slider rear piece 4502 in a shoulder view, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 45C illustrates an exploded view of a zipper slipper shoulder view, with zipper slider front piece 4501 and zipper slider rear piece 4502 in alignment, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 4501 aligns with, and is in contact with, zipper slider rear piece 4502 at contact point 4503.

In an embodiment, zipper slider rear piece 4502 is formed from a single piece of material, and includes a rear inner face 4510 with a rear inner face height 4511. Zipper splitter 4512 has a zipper splitter height 4513 that is greater than rear inner face height 4511, according to an embodiment.

Zipper slider rear piece (also called rear integrated piece) 4502, in an embodiment, includes a rear left guide 4514, rear right guide 4515, with a rear guide height 4516 that is greater than rear inner face height 4511, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, the rear guide height 4516 is a different height from splitter height 4513. Rear guides 4514 and 4515 are designed to force together two sides of a zipper chain to put a zipper into a “zipped up” configuration. One skilled in the art will understand that the term “guide” in this context can also include any appropriate synonyms, such as “rail.”

In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece (also called front integrated piece) 4501 includes front piece inner face 4525 with a front inner face height 4526, left front guide 4520 and front right guide 4521 with a front guide height 4522. One skilled in the art will understand that left front guide 4520 and right front guide 4521 can also be called shoulder spacings. In an embodiment, front guide height 4522 is greater than front inner face height 4526.

In an embodiment, zipper slider front piece 4501 includes an internal cavity (not shown) shaped and sized to contain electronic circuits to provide GPS, wireless functionality such as Bluetooth, WIFI, and the like, an activity counter for steps, distance measurement, and the like, a microphone, a speaker, a memory storage, a light source, and other electronics.

FIG. 46 illustrates an all molded zipper slider 4701 in a shoulder 4702 view, front piece 4603 and rear piece 4604 assembled, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 47 illustrates an all molded zipper slider 4701 showing a shoulder 4702 view of front piece 4703 and rear piece 4704 shown below zipper 4710 and zipper tape 4711.

FIG. 48A illustrates a single slider holder 4801 front-face shoulder view, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider holder 4801 includes front face 4810 and is connected to slider 4802. In an embodiment, slider holder 4801 includes a connection mechanism to connect slider holder 4801 to slider 4802. In an embodiment, the connection mechanism can be one of a screw, a threaded hole, a latch, a magnet, or a snap. In an embodiment, zipper slider 4802 includes a connection mechanism complementary to slider holder 4801 in a way that can receive or connect to, as appropriate, the connection mechanism in slider holder 4801.

FIG. 48B illustrates a single slider holder rear-face shoulder view, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper slider holder 4801 includes rear face 4811, which is connected to a front face (not shown) of zipper slider 4802. Zipper slider holder 4801 is sized and shaped to facilitate gripping by human hand. FIG. 49A illustrates a single slider holder 4901 bottom mouth view, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider holder 4901 is connected to slider 4902.

FIG. 48C illustrates a single slider holder 4801 front-face shoulder view, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper slider holder 4810 is held in place by one or more physical restraints 4803. In an embodiment, physical restraint 4803 can be a clip. In an embodiment, three clips are used leaving an open end (an end with no clip) into which a replacement or different zipper slider holder can be slid.

FIG. 49B illustrates a single slider holder 4901 top mouth view, according to embodiment, in which slider holder 4901 is connected to slider 4902. In an embodiment, slider holder 4901 is manufactured separately from slider 4902 and attached or bonded together after manufacture. In an embodiment, slider holder 4901 and slider 4902 are manufactured as a unitary piece.

FIG. 67A is a rear perspective view of an embodiment in which a zipper slider holder is comprised of multiple three dimensional shapes. FIG. 67B is a front perspective view of an embodiment in which zipper slider holder 6701 is comprised of a first three dimensional object 6702 in combination with a second three dimensional object 6703.

In an embodiment, zipper slider holder 6701 is comprised of a first three dimensional object 6702 in combination with a second three dimensional object 6703. In an embodiment, first three dimensional object 6702 is constructed independently of second three dimensional object 6703, and the two are fixedly connected to each other. In an embodiment, first three dimensional object 6702 and second three dimensional object 6703 are constructed as a unitary piece out of a single piece of material. In an embodiment, zipper slider holder 6701 includes rear face 6704 configured to be attached to a zipper slider.

One skilled in the art will understand that zipper slider holder 6701 can be a front zipper slider holder, or it can be a rear zipper slider holder, making face 6704 a front face. In an embodiment, first three dimensional object 6702 and second three dimensional object 6703 are each a prism. In an embodiment, first three dimensional object 6702 and/or second three dimensional object 6703 comprise a portion of a prism. In an embodiment, either or both prisms are chosen from a set of prisms including a cylinder, a cone, a sphere, a pyramid, and any sliced pieces thereof. FIGS. 68A through 68N are examples of prisms from which first three dimensional object 6702 and second three dimensional object 6703 can be chose. In an embodiment, at least one complete prism is chosen. In an embodiment, at least one sliced piece of a prism is chosen.

In an embodiment, zipper slider holder 6701 includes a glow in the dark material. In an embodiment, zipper slider holder 6701 includes or is configured to include is configured to include at least one of a design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, symbol, decoration, or ornamentation.

In an embodiment, zipper slider holder 6701 includes or is configured to include an internal cavity (not shown) shaped and sized to contain electronic circuits to provide GPS, wireless functionality such as Bluetooth, WIFI, and the like, an activity counter for steps, distance measurement, and the like, a microphone, a speaker, a memory storage to, for example, store music, a light source, and other electronics.

In an embodiment, slider holder 4901 includes or is configured to include an internal cavity (not shown) shaped and sized to contain electronic circuits to provide GPS, wireless functionality such as Bluetooth, WIFI, and the like, an activity counter for steps, distance measurement, and the like, a microphone, a speaker, a memory storage to, for example, store music, a light source, and other electronics.

FIG. 50A illustrates a single slider holder 5001 top mouth view, including slider 5002 and zipper chain 5003, according to an embodiment. FIG. 50B illustrates a single slider holder 5001 top shoulder view, including slider 5002 and zipper chain 5003, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 51A illustrates a double slider holder top shoulder view, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider holder front piece 5101 is connected to slider front piece 5102. FIG. 51B illustrates a double slider holder bottom shoulder view, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment slider holder rear piece 5103 is connected to slider rear piece 5104. FIG. 51C illustrates a double slider holder front piece 5101 and slider holder rear piece 5103 in alignment, according to an embodiment. When slider holder front piece 5101 and slider holder rear piece 5103 are aligned, slider front piece 5102 (not shown in 51C) is aligned with slider rear piece 5104, and when connected, act in concert to zip and unzip a zipper.

In an embodiment, slider holder rear piece 5103 has a front face 5110 that is connected to a rear face (not shown) of slider 5104.

In an embodiment, the zipper slider holder is manufactured as a separate pieces from the zipper slider, and is connected to the zipper slider after being manufactured. In an embodiment, the zipper slider holder is manufactured from the same piece and integral to the zipper slider, such that no additional connection is necessary. In an embodiment, the zipper slider holder and a zipper slider front piece are constructed as a single integrated zipper front slider piece creating a cavity inside the zipper slider holder to create the shape and dimensions of a front zipper slider within the zipper slider holder, including right and left guides, and at least one mouth and shoulder spacings configured to provide the same functionality of a zipper slider holder and front zipper piece, such that the zipper slider holder and the zipper slider front piece work as a single integrated zipper front slider.

FIG. 52 illustrates a double slider holder top shoulder view top and bottom pieces assembled, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider holder top piece 5201 is connected to slider top piece 5202, which in turn is connected to slider bottom piece 5203, which in turn in connected to slider holder 5204. The four components are configured to act in concert to zip and unzip a zipper.

FIG. 53 illustrates a double slider holder top shoulder view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper chain 5310 is run through slider 5303 to zip and unzip the zipper chain. In an embodiment, zipper slider holder front piece 5301 and zipper slider holder rear piece 5302 are configured to act individually as a slider holder such that the zipper mechanism can be gripped by either the front piece 5301 or the rear piece 5302, making the zipper reversible.

FIG. 54A illustrates a double slider holder top mouth view, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider holder front piece 5401 is connected to slider front piece 5402. FIG. 54B illustrates a double slider holder bottom shoulder view, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment slider holder rear piece 5403 is connected to slider rear piece 5404. FIG. 54C illustrates a double slider holder front piece 5401 and slider holder rear piece 5403 in alignment, according to an embodiment. When slider holder front piece 5401 and slider holder rear piece 5403 are aligned, slider front piece 5402 is aligned with slider rear piece 5404, and when connected, act in concert to zip and unzip a zipper.

FIG. 55 illustrates a double slider holder top mouth view with top and bottom pieces assembled, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider holder top piece 5501 is connected to slider top piece 5502, which in turn is connected to slider bottom piece 5503, which in turn in connected to slider holder 5504. The four components are configured to act in concert to zip and unzip a zipper.

FIG. 56 illustrates a double slider holder top shoulder view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper chain 5610 is run through slider 5603 to zip and unzip the zipper chain. In an embodiment, zipper slider holder front piece 5601 and zipper slider holder rear piece 5602 are configured to act individually as a slider holder such that the zipper mechanism can be gripped by either the front piece 5601 or the rear piece 5602, making the zipper reversible.

One skilled in the art will understand that molding provides a way of manufacturing a zipper slider. However, molding or any other practicable manufacturing process may be used, including injection molding, casting and molding, machining, joining, 3-D printing, and shearing and forming. Similarly, positive or negative molding processes can be used for manufacturing.

FIG. 57A illustrates a slider attached to new oversized zipper teeth, unzipped, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper slider 5701 is connected to pull tab 5702, and is configured to slide along zipper chain right hand side 5703 and zipper chain left hand side 5704. In an embodiment, zipper chain left hand side 5704 is made up of individual zipper teeth configured to accept a decorative design to be displayed outwardly when the zipper is zipped. In an embodiment, zipper chain left hand side 5704 includes zipper teeth with a width 5705 dimensioned substantially larger than a conventional zipper chain.

FIG. 57B illustrates a slider attached to oversized zipper teeth, zipped, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper chain 5706 is dimensioned substantially larger than a typical zipper chain and configured to be used with an oversized zipper slider.

FIG. 58A through FIG. 62 illustrate a slider and/or a slider integrated with a slider holder, including a spring mechanism that allows for replacement of a slider, or of an integrated slider and slider holder. FIG. 58A illustrates a double slider holder front piece 5801 in a mouth view, according to an embodiment. FIG. 58B illustrates a double slider holder rear piece 5802 in a mouth view with spring 5803 connected to splitter 5804, according to an embodiment. FIG. 58C illustrates a double slider holder front piece 5801 and rear piece 5802 aligned with a spring 5803 and splitter 5804, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, spring coil 5803 is configured to apply pressure to front piece 5801 to facilitate removal or opening of zipper slider front piece 5801 from zipper slider rear piece 5802. In an embodiment, spring 5803 is configured to apply outward pressure to front piece 5801 and rear piece 5802 when front piece 5801 is connected to rear piece 5802. In an embodiment, spring 5803 is configured to sit between the front piece 5801 and rear piece 5802 such that, when pressure is applied to at least one of the zipper slider front piece 5801 and zipper slider rear piece 5802 a gap opens between zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece, the gap being sufficiently large to allow insertion of at least one of an insertion pin or a zipper chain.

FIG. 58D illustrates a double slider holder with spring top mouth view top and bottom pieces assembled, as one side of slider holder is pressed to open other side for inserting the insertion pin, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 58E illustrates a double slider holder with spring top mouth view, attached to zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 59A illustrates a slider front 5901 mouth view configured to be in contact with a spring mechanism, according to an embodiment. FIG. 59B illustrates a slider holder rear 5902 mouth view with spring, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider rear piece 5902 includes spring 5903 that is connected to splitter 5904. One skilled in the art will understand that, while spring 5902 is displayed as a coil spring, any practicable spring can be substituted. In addition, to provide appropriate functionality, one may use ball bearings, leaf springs, metal bellows, or different materials like rubber or other flexible materials, or any combination of such mechanisms.

FIG. 59C illustrates a slider holder bottom and top piece alignment with spring, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider bottom piece 5901 sits adjacent to slider top piece 5902 and in contact with spring 5903 such that, when pressure is applied to an appropriate point on either slider bottom piece 5901 or slider top piece 5902, the two piece can separate allowing for insertion of a zipper chain (not shown).

FIG. 59D illustrates a spring release mechanism for a slider, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, threaded spring holder front piece 5910 and threaded spring holder rear piece 5911 each form a housing that is configured to receive spring 5903, and are further configured to be screwed into each other to fix a slider rear piece to a slider front piece. Threaded spring holder rear piece 5911 is configured to be fixedly connected to splitter 5904, according to an embodiment, when the two housings are twisted or screwed together. In an embodiment, at least one of spring holder front piece 5910 and spring holder rear piece 5911 is configured with a snap or other mechanism to secure spring 5903.

FIG. 59E illustrates a spring release mechanism for a slider, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, spring holder front piece 5920 includes a tab 5921, and spring holder rear piece 5922 includes a tab 5923 configured, when twisted relative to tab 5921, to connect spring holder front piece 5920 to spring holder rear piece 5922. In an embodiment, spring holder bottom piece 5922 is configured to receive spring 5903. In an embodiment, spring holder bottom piece 5922 is configured to secure spring 5903 to spring holder bottom piece 5922, which in turn is configured to be connected to, contained within, or be in contact with, splitter 5904. In the embodiments in FIGS. 59D and 59E, the screwing or tab-latching mechanisms are configured to fixedly connect a front piece zipper slider or zipper slider holder to a rear piece zipper slider or zipper slider holder by twisting the front piece and rear piece relative to each other around an axis 5950 of the housings.

FIG. 59F illustrates a slider top mouth view with a top spring holder for a quick release mechanism, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider bottom piece 5901 includes spring holder 5911 configured to receive a spring, where spring holder 5911 is configured to secure a slider holder top piece. In an embodiment, spring holder 5911 includes threaded to allow it to be screwed into a spring holder top piece. FIG. 59G illustrates a slider bottom mouth view with a spring and a bottom spring holder, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider top piece 5902 includes splitter 5904 configured to hold spring 5903 using spring holder top piece 5910.

FIG. 59H illustrates an embodiment in which slider top piece and bottom piece in alignment such that slider bottom piece 5901 can connect to slider top piece 5902 with spring 5903 situated between spring holder bottom piece 5901 and spring holder top piece 5902 such that when slider bottom piece 5901 is pressed against slider top piece 5902, spring 5903 is compressed. In an embodiment, zipper slider bottom piece 5901 is fixed in position and orientation with zipper slider top piece using bottom a spring holder 5931 that extends inward from the inner surface of slider bottom piece 5901. In an embodiment, manipulation piece 5931 can be a button configured to connect with and disconnect from top spring holder 5940. In an embodiment, manipulation piece 5931 can be turned to screw bottom spring holder 5911 into top spring holder 5910. In an embodiment, manipulation piece 5931 can be turned to rotatable coupled to slider bottom piece 5901 configured to, when twisted about its axis, lock with top spring holder 5910.

FIG. 60A illustrates a slider holder with spring top mouth view top and bottom pieces assembled. In an embodiment, as one side of slider holder is pressed (either slider top piece 6001 or slider bottom piece 6002 shown in dotted lines), slider top piece 6001 moves relative to slider bottom piece 6002 creating a gap 6003 sized to allow an insertion pin 6004 and/or zipper chain 6005 to fit within the gap to allow the zipper to be zipped. FIG. 60B illustrates a slider holder with spring top mouth view, attached to a zipper, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, once the complete zipper chain contained within the boundaries of slider 6021, pressure can be released from the side of the slider that has received the pressure, thereby closing the gap and allowing slider 6021 to act as a conventional zipper slider.

FIG. 61A illustrates an all molded slider mouth view, top piece, according to an embodiment. FIG. 61B illustrates an all molded slider mouth view, bottom piece with spring, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, slider top piece 6101 is configured to be in contact with slider bottom piece 6102 via spring 6103. In an embodiment, spring 6103 is configured to increase the distance between the right side 6120 of slider top piece 6101 and slider bottom piece 6102, when pressure is applied to the left side of slider top piece 6101 or slider bottom piece 6102 or both.

FIG. 61C illustrates an all molded slider mouth view, top and bottom pieces alignment with spring, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, spring 6103 is configured to increase the distance between the left side 6121 of slider top piece 6101 and slider bottom piece 6102, when pressure is applied to the right side of slider top piece 6101 or slider bottom piece 6102 or both.

FIG. 61D illustrates an all molded slide with spring top mouth view top and bottom pieces assembled, as one side of slider holder is pressed to open other side for inserting the insertion pin or zipper chain, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, when pressure is applied to one side of slider top piece 6101, a gap 6140 opens between slider top piece 6101 and slider bottom piece 6102 on the other side, thus allowing an insertion pin 6135 and/or zipper chain 6136 to be inserted laterally between slider top piece 6101 and slider bottom piece 6102. FIG. 61E illustrates an all molded slider with spring top mouth view, with zipper pin 6135 and zipper chain 6135 inserted such that the complete zipper slider can sip and unzip the zipper, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 62 illustrates a zipper slider with an oversized bottom stop and insertion pin, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, insertion pin 6201 is configured to fit into groove 6202 in bottom stop 6203. In an embodiment insertion pin 6201 and bottom stop 6203 are sized and configured to allow them to be grasped and manipulated by a person with compromised dexterity. In an embodiment, at least one of insertion pin 6201 or bottom stop 6203 are sized to be larger than a traditional zipper for a known garment.

In an embodiment, sliders can be manufactured such that they can be attached, detached, and replaced by different shapes simply by any means such as screwing, latching, inserting, snapping, twisting, and any other practicable method. In an embodiment, sliders may be manufactured with or without a pull tab, or any shape of pull tab, and with or without a connection for a pull tab.

The spring mechanism discussed above can be manufactured such that the spring is locked when not in use. Such mechanism is configured to lock the zipper slider in a position such that it cannot be pressed on either side until it is first unlocked. In an embodiment, first twisting the slider upper-piece unlocks the slider upper and lower pieces, which are connected with a spring. Then pressing in one side of the slider opens the other side of the slider for inserting the zipper teeth. To lock the upper and lower pieces of the slider, one presses on the upper-piece of the slider and turn it to lock both upper and lower pieces of the slider body, according to an embodiment. When locked, the spring is not functional. One skilled in the art will understand that the spring mechanism can be manufactured for any of the above-mentioned sliders, including a traditional slider, a single slider holder, a double slider holder, a molded slider, or any slider for which the spring mechanism is practicable.

In an embodiment, any or all parts of the zipper, including the zipper slider, the zipper slider holder, the pull tab, the insertion pin, the stop pin, the retainer box, the zipper teeth, and/or the tape, may include a glow in the dark material such that it may be manufactured with or treated with glow in the dark material such as phosphor to provide fluorescence to easily see and operate the zipper in dark lighting conditions. One skilled in the art will understand that the term “material” in this context can include its appropriate synonyms, such as “substance.”

In an embodiment a zipper slider includes at least one electronic activity sensor incorporated within the zipper slider and/or the zipper slider holder to measure steps, distance, and/or calories.

FIG. 63 illustrates an embodiment in which zipper teeth are colored or shaded to reveal different shapes, characters, and/or designs when zipped together, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, zipper chain left piece 6303 is made up of a plurality of left side teeth 6304 that are sized and shaped to display at least a portion of different shapes, characters, letters, emojis, and decorations. In an embodiment, zipper chain right piece 6305 is made up of a plurality of right side teeth 6306 that are sized and shaped to display at least a portion of different shapes, characters, letters, emojis, and decorations. In an embodiment, the zipper chain left piece 6303 and the zipper chain right piece 6305 are configured to connect to each other, the zipper chain left piece 6303 and zipper chain right piece 6305 each have a front face configured, when the zipper chain left piece and zipper chain right piece are connected to each other, to display a complete design across the front face.

FIG. 64 illustrates an embodiment in which the zipper chain left piece 6401 is connected to zipper chain right piece 6402 such that zipper chain 6043 is in a zipped configuration. In an embodiment, zipper chain 6403 includes a front face that is colored to reveal a complete heart shape, characters, and a message, or any design, which can include shapes, words, patterns, colors, characters, icons, emojis, symbols, decorations, ornamentations or any other type of design. In an embodiment, zipper chain 6043, including zipper teeth 6404, are oversized and configured to display a message printed onto zipper chain 6403. In an embodiment, the design is printed on the zipper teeth in such a way as to reveal the complete design when the zipper is in the zipped up configuration (i.e., when the zipper chain left piece 6401 and zipper chain right piece 6402 are connected to each other). In an embodiment, zipper teeth 6404 have a front face that is substantially flat to receive and display a message or other decoration.

FIG. 65A illustrates an embodiment in which zipper teeth color and design and clothing color and design can be aligned and coordinated to provide different patterns and designs, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 65B illustrates an embodiment of a decorative zipper chain and zipper tape that includes a color and design that further decorates the color and design of the clothing to which it is attached. In an embodiment, zipper chain 6501 combines with left hand zipper tape 6502 and right hand zipper tape 6505 combine into a tie-like shape.

In an embodiment, a decorative zipper includes a left hand zipper tape 6502 with an left hand tape inner edge 6503 attached to the zipper chain left piece along a long axis defined as the length of the zipper chain in the direction from the collar to the waist. In an embodiment, the left hand zipper tape has a left hand tape outer edge 6504 with a shape that is not substantially parallel to the long axis. In an embodiment, left hand zipper tape 6502 is shaped like one half of a necktie.

In an embodiment, the decorative zipper and zipper tape include a right hand zipper tape 6505 with an inner edge 6506 attached to the zipper chain in a direction substantially parallel to the long axis, the right hand zipper tape further having a right hand tape outer edge 6507 with a shape that is not substantially parallel to the long axis. In an embodiment, left hand zipper tape 6502 and right hand zipper tape 6505 combine to simulate the shape of a necktie.

FIG. 65C illustrates an embodiment in which matching zipper teeth color and design and clothing color and design shown in bottom half of tie-like shape 6510, whereas the top half of the Tie shape showing only the zipper and clothing without matching color or design 6511 for reference, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 66A illustrates an embodiment in which the right zipper half 6606 and/or the left zipper half 6601 are replaceable, in an unattached and unzipped configuration. In an embodiment, left zipper half 6601 includes a first row of teeth 6602, and left hand zipper tape 6603. Left hand zipper tape 6603 includes an inner edge in contact with first row of teeth 6602, and an outer edge that is attached to a second row of teeth 6604. Second row of teeth piece is configured to zip to fixed or preexisting zipper chain left piece 6605, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, the apparatus in FIG. 66A further includes a replaceable right zipper half. In an embodiment, right zipper half 6606 includes a third row of teeth 6607, and right hand zipper tape 6608. Right hand zipper tape 6608 includes an inner edge in contact with the third row of zipper teeth 6607, and an outer edge that is attached to a fourth row of zipper teeth 6609. Fourth row of zipper teeth 6609 is configured to zip to fixed zipper chain right piece 6610, according to an embodiment.

One skilled in the art will understand that first row of zipper teeth 6602 can zip to third row of zipper teeth 6607, or can zip to fixed zipper teeth 6610. Likewise, third row of zipper teeth 6607 can zip to first row of zipper teeth 6602, or fixed zipper teeth 6605.

FIG. 66B illustrates an embodiment in which the left zipper half and/or the right zipper half are replaceable, in an attached, unzipped configuration. In an embodiment, second zipper teeth 6604 is zipped to third zipper 6605, and third zipper chain 6609 is zipped to fourth zipper chain 6610, thereby attached the new zipper to the clothing.

FIG. 66C illustrates an embodiment in which the left zipper half and/or the right zipper half are replaceable, in an attached and zipped configuration.

FIG. 66D illustrates an embodiment in which the left-hand side zipper, the right-hand side zipper, or both, are replaceable, allowing a user to swap out zippers of different sizes and shapes, and zippers with different patterns, to allow for new sizes, shapes, and/or patterns, according to an embodiment.

In an embodiment, either both of the left zipper tape 6603 and the right zipper tape 6608 includes at least one of a design, a shape, a word, a pattern, a color, a character, an icon, an emoji, a symbol, or a decoration.

FIG. 66E illustrates an embodiment in which zipper tape 6608 includes at least one of a design, a shape, a word, a pattern, a color, a character, an icon, an emoji, or a decoration. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, the symbol, or decoration, includes a glow in the dark material, and is configured to attached to an additional row of teeth on one or both sides of zipper tape 6608. In an embodiment, zipper tape 6603 can include at least a portion of the design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, the symbol, or decoration, includes a glow in the dark material, and is configured to attached to an additional row of teeth on one or both sides.

In an embodiment, zipper tape 6608 is connected to a first row of zipper teeth 6607 on one side of the zipper tape, and a second row of zipper teeth 6609 on the opposite, or second, side of the zipper tape. In an embodiment, the first row of zipper teeth 6607 is configured to be zipped to a third row of zipper teeth 6605 using first slider 6611, and the second row of zipper teeth 6609 is configured to be zipped to a fourth row of zipper teeth 6610 using slider 6612. In an embodiment, zipper tape 6608 includes at least one of a design, a shape, a word, a pattern, a color, a character, an icon, an emoji, a symbol, or a decoration. In an embodiment, zipper tape 6603 can include at least a portion of the design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, the symbol, or decoration, includes a glow in the dark material, and is configured to attached to an additional row of teeth on one or both sides.

One skilled in the art will understand that, for the purposes of the present invention, the electronics and electrical components discussed above may be placed into a zipper slider or a zipper slider holder front face, and/or a zipper slider holder rear face, but in another embodiment, the electronics and electrical components may also be placed into a RHS slider holder or a LHS slider holder, or any practicable portion of a divided slider holder.

One skilled in the art will understand that, for the purposes of the present invention, the various components described herein can be constructed from any practicable material, including plastic, nylon, metal, and others. In addition, one skilled in the art will understand that the slider holder can be any size, providing certain advantages when the slider holder is made larger, such as make the slider holder easier to grasp. One skilled in the art will appreciate that, unless stated otherwise, the slider holder can be of any size and shape appropriate for grasping and manipulating.

One skilled in the art will understand that the terms LHS and RHS stand for “left-hand side” and “right-hand side,” LHS slider is synonymous with the term left-hand slider and left-hand side slider, RHS slider is synonymous with the term right-hand slider and right-hand side slider, LHS slider holder is synonymous with the term left-hand slider holder and left-hand side slider holder, and RHS slider holder is synonymous with the term right-hand slider holder and right-hand side slider holder One skilled in the art will appreciate that distinguishing left from right is not meant to be limiting, but rather to distinguish one side from the other. Thus, any RHS slider, chain, bottom stop, can be called an LHS slider, chain, bottom stop, as long as it is distinguished from its counterpart on the other side of the zipper. For the purposes of the present invention, one skilled in the art will understand that LHS and RHS are simply labels to distinguish the two sides. The terms “left” and “right” can be exchanged without limiting or altering the spirit of the invention. Likewise, the terms “front” and “rear” can be exchanged without limiting or altering the spirit of the invention. The terms “left” and “right,” and “front” and “rear” are simply used to distinguish one side from another side.

Although specific features of the invention are shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only as each feature may be combined with any or all of the other features in accordance with the invention. The words “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and “with,” as used herein, are to be interpreted broadly and comprehensively. Moreover, any embodiments disclosed in the subject application are not to be taken as the only possible embodiments. 

I claim:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a zipper slider with a zipper slider front face; a zipper slider holder shaped as a three dimensional object with a holder rear side, the holder rear side fixedly connected to the zipper slider front face, the zipper slider holder shaped and sized to facilitate gripping by a human hand without the use of a pull tab.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the zipper slider holder is shaped as a plurality of three dimensional objects in contact with one another, the plurality of three dimensional objects chosen from a set of prisms including a cylinder, a cone, a sphere, a pyramid, and any sliced pieces thereof.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the zipper slider holder includes an internal cavity shaped and sized to contain at least one of a light source, a memory storage, a wireless device, a GPS device, an activity monitor, a microphone, or a speaker.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the zipper slider holder includes a glow in the dark material.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the combination of zipper slider and zipper slider holder are configured to allow the zipper slider holder to be removable and replaceable.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the zipper slider holder is configured to include at least one of design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, symbol, decoration, or ornamentation.
 7. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a zipper slider rear face, and wherein the zipper slider holder is a first zipper slider holder, and further comprising a second zipper slider holder shaped as a three dimensional object fixedly connected to the zipper slider rear face and shaped and sized to facilitate gripping by a human hand without the use of a pull tab.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second zipper slider holder is shaped as a plurality of three dimensional objects in contact with one another, the plurality of three dimensional objects chosen from a set of prisms including a cylinder, a cone, a sphere, a pyramid, and any sliced pieces thereof.
 9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein at least one of the first zipper slider holder and the second zipper slider holder is configured to be removable and replaceable.
 10. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein at least one of the first zipper slider holder and the second zipper slider holder is configured to include an internal cavity shaped and sized to include at least one of a light source, a memory storage, a wireless device, a GPS device, an activity monitor, a microphone, or a speaker.
 11. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein at least one of the first zipper slider holder and the second zipper slider holder includes a glow in the dark material.
 12. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein at least one of the first zipper slider holder and the second zipper slider holder are manufactured as separate pieces from the zipper slider and connected together after being manufactured.
 13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein at least one of the first zipper slider holder and the second zipper slider holder is manufactured together with the zipper slider such that no additional connection is necessary.
 14. An apparatus comprising: a zipper slider holder and a zipper slider front piece constructed as a single integrated zipper front slider piece creating a cavity inside the zipper slider holder to create the shape and dimensions of a front zipper slider within the zipper slider holder, including right and left guides, configured to provide the same functionality of a zipper slider holder and front zipper piece, such that the zipper slider holder and the zipper slider front piece work as a single integrated zipper front slider.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the single integrated zipper front slider is configured to be removable and replaceable.
 16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the integrated zipper front slider piece is configured to include an internal cavity shaped and sized to include at least one of a light source, a memory storage, a wireless device, a GPS device, an activity monitor, a microphone, or a speaker.
 17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the integrated zipper front slider includes a glow in the dark material.
 18. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the integrated zipper front slider is configured to include at least one of design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, symbol, decoration, or ornamentation.
 19. An apparatus comprising: a zipper slider holder and a rear zipper slider piece constructed as a single integrated zipper rear slider piece creating a cavity inside the zipper slider holder to create the shape and dimensions of a rear zipper slider within the zipper slider holder, including right and left guides, a zipper chain splitter, and an opening configured to provide the same functionality of a zipper slider holder and rear zipper piece, such that the zipper slider holder and the rear zipper slider piece work as a single integrated zipper rear slider.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the integrated zipper rear slider piece includes an internal cavity shaped and sized to include at least one of a light source, a memory storage, a wireless device, a GPS device, an activity monitor, a microphone, or a speaker.
 21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein at least one of the front piece and the rear piece includes a glow in the dark material.
 22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the integrated zipper rear slider is configured to include at least one of design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, symbol, decoration, or ornamentation.
 23. An apparatus comprising: a zipper slider holder front piece integral with a zipper slider front piece to create an integrated front piece; a rear zipper slider holder integral to a rear zipper slider piece to create an integrated rear piece; the integrated front piece and integrated rear piece constructed as a single integrated unit; the front integrated piece and rear integrated piece configured, when acting together to form an internal cavity that includes right and left guides, a zipper chain splitter configured to combine two sides of a zipper chain into a single zipper chain.
 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein at least one of the integrated front piece and integrated rear piece include an inner cavity shaped and sized to include at least one of a light source, a memory storage, a wireless device, a GPS device, an activity monitor, a microphone, or a speaker.
 25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein at least one of the front piece and the rear piece includes a glow in the dark material.
 26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein at least one of the integrated front piece and integrated rear piece is removable and replaceable.
 27. An apparatus comprising: a zipper chain comprising a zipper chain left piece with a left piece front face, and a zipper chain right piece with a right piece front face, the zipper chain left piece and the zipper chain right piece configured to connect to each other; the left piece front face and right piece front face each including at least a portion of a design configured to be revealed as at least one of a complete design, shape, word, pattern, color, character, icon, emoji, symbol, ornamentation or decoration when the zipper chain left piece and zipper chain right piece are connected to each other.
 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein at least one of the right piece front face and left piece front face includes a glow in the dark material.
 29. An apparatus comprising: a zipper slider front piece; a zipper slider rear piece; a spring configured to sit between the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece and configured, when pressure is applied to at least one of the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece, to open a gap between the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece sufficient to allow insertion of at least one of an insertion pin or a zipper chain.
 30. An apparatus comprising: a zipper slider front piece; a zipper slider rear piece; the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece being configured to, when working together, connect a left half of a zipper chain to a right half of a zipper chain; a spring configured to sit between the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece in a way that provides an opposing force between the zipper slider front piece and zipper slider rear piece; a zipper chain splitter connected to the rear piece, the zipper chain splitter including a first housing configured to receive a first end of the spring; the zipper slider front piece including a second housing configured to receive a second end of the spring; and a securing mechanism configured to secure the first housing to the second housing.
 31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the securing mechanism includes first threads in contact with the first housing, and second threads in contact with the second housing, the second threads configured to be screwed into the first threads when the zipper slider front piece is twisted relative to the zipper slider rear piece.
 32. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the securing mechanism includes a first tab in contact with the first housing; and a second tab configured to be in contact with the first tab and configured to fix the zipper slider first piece to the zipper slider second piece when the zipper slider first piece is twisted relative to the zipper slider second piece.
 33. An apparatus comprising: a replaceable zipper half that comprises: a first row of teeth; a second row of teeth; and a zipper tape with a first side in contact with the first row of teeth, the zipper tape further including a second side in contact with the second row of teeth such that the second row of teeth can be connected to a fixed zipper, and the first row of teeth can be connected to an additional row of zipper teeth.
 34. The apparatus of claim 33, further comprising: a replaceable second zipper half that comprises: a third row of teeth and configured to be connected to the first row of teeth; a fourth row of teeth and configured to be connected to a fixed zipper; and wherein the zipper tape is a first zipper tape; the second zipper half further including, a second zipper tape with a third side in contact with the third row of teeth, the second zipper tape further including a fourth side in contact with a fourth row of teeth.
 35. The apparatus of claim 33 wherein the zipper tape includes at least one of a design, a shape, a word, a pattern, a color, a character, an icon, an emoji, a symbol, an ornamentation, or a decoration.
 36. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein at least a part of one of the replaceable zipper half includes a glow in the dark material. 